RICHARD

Richard has been self-employed since he was 20. He is a joiner and builder by trade. Back in 1981, for the first time since he started work, he had three minor accidents. Shortly afterwards he was approached by a salesman who suggested he insured himself against sickness and disability. The accidents were a warning; Richard realised that if the accidents had been more serious, he would not be able to pay the bills, so he took out an income protection policy with Norwich Union Healthcare.

Fortunately, he suffered no further accidents. However a couple of years ago, having suffered sciatica and hip problems, he was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis. This has extended to hands, feet and knees. He hopes to be able to return to work but cannot be sure.

Richard has been claiming on his income protection policy since January 2007. Asked what the benefit meant to him, he said, “I don’t know what I would be doing without it. State benefits are peanuts. My only regret is that I didn’t top it up, but you don’t think this sort of thing will happen to you.”

Richard lives with his partner and has children and grandchildren now. He is not living in luxury, but at least he can pay his regular bills and not worry.